Werner Christ Bareback Pad Fit Guide
Werner Christ Bareback Pad Fit Guide
Choosing the right bareback pad makes all the difference in comfort, stability, and fit — for both you and your horse. This guide will help you select the right model and size from the Werner Christ lineup.
Step 1: Choose Your Model
Werner Christ offers three distinct bareback pad lines, each designed for a different riding style and fit preference.
| Basic PLUS | Premium Plus | Iberica Plus | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Best for | Everyday riding, beginners, trail | Riders wanting stirrup bars &/or more structure | Spanish/baroque style, close contact feel |
| Seat material | Super-soft lambskin | High-quality lambskin | Lambskin in Spanish style |
| Knee blocks | Foam cantle only | Large foam knee blocks and cantle | Front and rear cantle |
| Stirrup bars | No | No | No |
| Shims/inserts | Removable foam shims | Removable padding & composite foam shims | Composite foam inserts - can be shimmed |
| High wither option | No | Yes (separate model) | No |
| Machine washable | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Sizes available | Pony (PO), Horse (WB) | Pony (PO), Horse (WB) | Pony (PO), Warmblood (WB) |
💡 Tip: If your horse has high or pronounced withers, look for the Premium Plus High Wither model, which is specifically shaped to accommodate prominent withers without pressure points.
Step 2: Choose Your Size
All Werner Christ bareback pads come in two sizes: Pony and Horse/Warmblood. The size refers to the rider's seat size, not the horse's size.
| Size | Best for | Rider jean size (approx.) |
|---|---|---|
| Pony (PO) | Children and smaller adults | UK size 10 and under / US size 8 and under |
| Horse / Warmblood (WB) | Average to larger adults | UK size 12+ / US size 10+ |
When in doubt, size up. A slightly larger pad is more comfortable than one that's too small. If you're between sizes, consider your riding discipline — closer contact disciplines may prefer a snugger fit.
Step 3: Consider Your Horse's Back
While the pad size is based on the rider, the model you choose should suit your horse's conformation:
- Average or mutton-withered horses: Any model works well. The Basic PLUS and Iberica Plus are great starting points.
- High or prominent withers: Choose the Premium Plus High Wither model. It is specifically designed to clear the withers and prevent pressure.
- Broad, flat backs: The Iberica Plus with its composite foam inserts provides excellent stability on wider backs.
- Fine or narrow backs: The removable shims in the Basic PLUS and Premium Plus allow you to customize the fit and add lift where needed.
Saddle Compatibility
Werner Christ bareback pads are designed to be used without a saddle — they sit directly on the horse's back. However, some models offer additional compatibility options:
- The Premium Plus has space for an optional (special order) gullet plate with stirrup bars, making it the closest to a traditional saddle experience.
- The Iberica Plus is compatible with the Werner Christ Champ Sheepskin Saddle Pad, which can be used underneath for added cushioning and protection.
- All models can be used with a standard girth or surcingle. Ensure your girth is the correct length for a bareback pad (typically shorter than a standard saddle girth).
Colour & Material Guide
Werner Christ uses a three-part colour naming system: Seat colour / Trim colour / Fleece colour. For example, Brown/Brown/Natural means a brown seat, brown trim, and natural (cream) fleece underside.
- Natural fleece = cream/off-white lambskin underside
- Black trim = black binding and detailing
- Anthracite = dark charcoal grey
Care Instructions
Proper care keeps your bareback pad performing and looking its best — and sets the right expectations for longevity:
- All Werner Christ bareback pads are machine washable. Use a gentle/wool cycle with cold water.
- Use Werner Christ C7 Lambskin Detergent (available in our store) — it's environmentally friendly and formulated specifically for lambskin. One 250ml bottle provides approximately 9–10 washes.
- After washing, reshape the pad and allow it to air dry flat. Do not tumble dry or place near direct heat.
- Once dry, use the Werner Christ Sheepskin Brush to restore the fleece to its natural fluffy texture.
- Remove foam shims and inserts before washing.
Still Not Sure?
We're happy to help you find the perfect fit. Contact us with your horse's measurements, your jean size, and your riding discipline, and we'll point you in the right direction.
You can also browse the full Werner Christ collection to see all available models and colours.